Troubled cop bolts department

Holloway departs 3 months after being put on leave

John ZarembaFriday, February 01, 2013

Credit: Unknown

Bruce Holloway

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Boston Police Superintendent Bruce Holloway — a decorated 33-year veteran who led the department’s investigative operations — is retiring to pursue “competitive options” three months after he was put on leave over unspecified accusations by an ex-girlfriend, his lawyer said.

His retirement takes effect today, according to Holloway’s attorney Timothy Burke, who said the move is unrelated to the dispute.

“His superiors attempted to convince him to stay on, but he has, not surprisingly, a number of other options available that he chooses to explore and is looking forward to it,” Burke said.

Boston police Commissioner Edward F. Davis called Holloway an “integral member of the command staff” who will be “sorely missed.”

“We are disappointed to lose a valued member of the department but understand his desire to move on to the next chapter in his career,” Davis said in a statement. “He created one of the most successful inner-city youth hockey programs called ‘Score Boston,’ which is now in its 17th year. We are thankful to Supt. Holloway for his years of service and wish him well in all of his future endeavors.”

Holloway, whose awards include the department’s medal of honor, was placed on paid leave in late October after a police spokeswoman said the department was probing what it called “new” allegations from a former girlfriend.

Burke said Holloway and the woman broke up in August after a year together, then both applied for restraining orders against each other. But Burke said Holloway is not accused of any violent acts. A judge sealed Holloway’s order and a pair of police reports submitted with the girlfriend’s application were also under seal. In her complaint, she alleged the incidents occurred on Aug. 5 and Aug. 12, and said they had been living together.

Burke said Holloway’s retirement is not connected to the allegations against him.

“Sometimes these situations give you a chance to think and realize there are other options out there for you,” Burke said.